first-night effect
n.— «The rooms will be recreated at the athletes’ village in Turin, helping the Americans avoid what scientists call the “first-night effect,” which is similar to jetlag and can hinder performance.» —“U.S. Olympic Dreams May Rest on Softer Pillows” by Scott Soshnick Bloomberg.com Dec. 15, 2005. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Book recommendations and the art of apology. Martha and Grant share some good reads, including an opinionated romp through English grammar, a Spanish-language adventure novel, an account of 19th-century dictionary wars, and a gorgeously illustrated...
Book recommendations, including a collection of short stories inspired by dictionaries, and a techno-thriller for teens. Or, how about novels with an upbeat message? Publishers call this genre up lit. Plus, a clergyman ponders an arresting phrase in...